Tensions between Turkey and Israel are escalating, with Turkish media increasingly discussing the possibility of a military confrontation between the two countries and warning that Greece could also become involved.
A document from Turkey’s Defense Ministry says Ankara is closely monitoring military activity by Greece and Israel in the Eastern Mediterranean and preparing for possible developments, including a crisis, heightened tensions or war in the region.
“Greek military activities, as well as activities carried out by Israel in the Eastern Mediterranean, are being closely monitored,” the document says. “All possible developments, including possible crises, tensions and war that may arise in our region, are being closely monitored and the necessary work is being carried out.”
The document has added to concerns in Turkey over the potential consequences of closer military activity by Greece and Israel in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Greece says it will act under international law
Greek Environment and Energy Minister Stavros Papastavrou said Turkey was attempting to respond to measures and actions being taken by Greece.
“At this moment, it is clear that, along the course we are taking with these specific measures and actions, Turkey is trying to react,” Papastavrou said. “We continue decisively, always in accordance with international law.”
Greece is also moving ahead with plans to acquire two FREMM frigates from Italy. Athens is scheduled to sign the agreement activating the acquisition program on Sept. 8.
The two Italian frigates are the Carlo Bergamini, which is expected to enter Greek service during the first half of 2028, and the Virginio Fasan, which is expected to follow during the first half of 2029.
Athens remains on alert
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has sought to present himself as a “peacemaker” despite what the report describes as Turkey’s revisionist “Blue Homeland” doctrine and its reference to a casus belli, or threat of war.
Athens, meanwhile, remains on alert.
Four Greek fighter jets and a Hellenic Navy frigate remain in Cyprus until further notice, according to the report, underscoring Greece’s continued vigilance amid the heightened tensions in the region.
